At its most recent board meeting, Fort Worth Housing Solutions addressed a sharp rise in employee health‑insurance premiums. The agency, which previously relied on a group plan through Blue Cross‑Blue Shield, was hit with a 31% increase after its workforce fell below the 100‑employee threshold that qualifies for lower rates.
Switching carriers to curb costs
To mitigate the impact, the board hired broker Brown & Brown to solicit competitive offers. Four major carriers responded, and Cigna presented the most favorable proposal—a renewal rate of 11.6% above the prior year’s cost. The new arrangement will lift the agency’s health‑care budget from roughly $1.3 million to $1.5 million annually.
Effect on staff benefits
While the overall expense increase is significant, the board noted that the change will have a limited effect on day‑to‑day employee expenses. The only immediate adjustment is a modest rise in co‑pays for emergency‑room visits. Employees will also have additional time to decide whether to enroll in the new plan.
Dependents’ coverage may see higher costs, though the board did not disclose specific figures. Other benefit programs—including vision, dental, life, disability and two universal‑life options—remain unchanged for the coming year.
Other board actions
In the same session, the board voted to extend its contract with Dealpath, the cloud‑based real‑estate software the agency uses to manage its properties. The two‑year extension will cost $53,131.01 per year, for a total of $106,262.02. No questions were raised, and the motion passed unanimously.
Context for Fort Worth residents
Fort Worth Housing Solutions provides affordable housing across the city, making the stability of its workforce a public‑interest concern. By securing a more affordable insurance option, the agency aims to preserve resources for its core mission while maintaining essential employee benefits.
The board’s proactive approach reflects a broader trend among local government entities to seek cost‑effective solutions amid rising health‑care expenses. Residents can expect the agency to continue focusing on delivering safe, affordable housing while managing its budget responsibly.
Original reporting: Fort Worth Report — read the source article.
